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Nikon 85mm review

Photokina report

Tuesday 31st, August 2010Posted by: Dennis Hissink

Review Photokina 2010 - With the introduction of the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G, Nikon fulfills an old promise. Nikon already had the beautiful Nikon 85mm f/1.4 in its assortment, but it was missing a number of specifications that we recently found in the new series of professional Nikon lenses. The new Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm now has a Silent Wave Motor, AF-S, and the highly praised Nano Crystal coating. It was a difficult task for the optical designers to improve the already highly valued lens. But this Nikon 85mm lens means that there is a new lens available for the portrait and fashion photographer in order to get the most out of the Nikon FX DSLR camera.

Nikon 85mm reviewThe new Nikon AF-S 85mm lens is a bit heavier. Its predecessor had a weight of 550 grams, while the new Nikon portrait lens now weighs 595 grams. This does not necessarily have to be an objection, as it is only a difference of 45 grams, and you do get several extra features in return. The lens is also a bit thicker and longer. Its predecessor had a diameter of 80mm and was 72.5mm long, and the new Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G measures 84mm in length and has a diameter of 86.5mm. However, the filter size has remained the same, namely 77mm.

Nikon 85mm lensThis classic FX portrait lens is made of very decent material. Of course, we hadn’t expected anything less. The weight of 595 grams is not objectionable, and in combination with for example a Nikon D3s, an ideal weight distribution. The Nikon 85mm lens is a classic portrait lens that is especially used to shoot portraits, weddings, or fashion shoots. It is the type of lens that we have already seen for years at these types of events. The new Nikon 85mm f/1.4 design is also made to last for at least ten years at a high level.

Nikon 85mm reviewThe Nikon 85mm f/1.4G’s focus ring is in a logical place and feels comfortable. Because this Nikon lens is equipped with AF-S, the mechanical switch M/A in the form of a ring has disappeared, and a small switch has been placed on the side of the lens. There is also no aperture selection anymore, because the aperture can be selected in the camera itself, and because it is expected that few to no film-based Nikon SLR cameras will be used with this lens.

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